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Prins Hendrikzanddijk

Picture showing people biking along the coast of Prins Hendrikzanddijk. Photo by Jan De Nul.

A sandy solution for a dike reinforcement – The Prins Hendrikzanddijk 

Originally constructed in the 19th century, the Prins Hendrikdijk was built as a measure to protect and reclaim the land on the south-eastern side of the Texel area in the Netherlands. The dike reflects the traditional Dutch approach to coastal defense, built from sand and clay and reinforced with stone. Over time, however, it no longer met modern flood standards. To strengthen its resilience, a 3 kilometer long ‘dike’ was constructed in the Wadden Sea - the Prins Hedrikzanddijk. Covering 200 hectares, this  sandy solution is considered to be an integral part of the dike protecting the island from flooding, encompassing hectares of new habitats, a dune for protection, with a protected nature zone at the seaside, sheltered by a sandy beach hook. The sandy solution is constructed within the N2000 Wadden Sea area and contributes to creating breeding and resting areas for many bird species such as Eurasian oystercatcher, Sandwich tern, Red knot, Common ringed plover and Common eider. Additionally, the area provides a quiet coastal resting place for seals, habitat for small coastal animals, and various insect species. Recognized for its exceptional ecological value, the area acts as a home for numerous Wadden Sea animals and a variety of salt-tolerant plants, making Prins Hendrikzanddijk an important habitat within the Wadden Sea. The project successfully showcases how coastal protection and nature development can be combined.

Purpose of the NbS: 

Coastal safety 

Context of the NbS:

Dike reinforcement on Texel needed à sand dike in the Wadden as a solution to spare scarce agricultural land 

Further information on this NbS: 

https://www.ecoshape.org/nl/pilots/prins-hendrik-zanddijk/ 

https://www.hhnk.nl/prinshendrikzanddijk    

https://www.jandenul.com/projects/prins-hendrik-sand-dyke-netherlands 

Aerial image showing the coast. Photo by Jan De Nul.
Picture showing the boat on in the Wadden Sea, stationed along the coast of the dike. Photo by Jan De Nul.
Image showing the dike after completion of the works. Photo by Jan De Nul.
Image showing the construction of the dike. Photo by Jan De Nul.
Aerial photo of the coast and dike. Photo by Jan De Nul.
  • Aerial image showing the coast. Photo by Jan De Nul.
  • Picture showing the boat on in the Wadden Sea, stationed along the coast of the dike. Photo by Jan De Nul.
  • Image showing the dike after completion of the works. Photo by Jan De Nul.
  • Image showing the construction of the dike. Photo by Jan De Nul.
  • Aerial photo of the coast and dike. Photo by Jan De Nul.

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